Question

When a Dolmen is placed under an earth mound, it is called a:

• A. Passage grave
• B. Tumulus
• C. Stonehenge
• D. Hallcist

Hint:

Remember the hierarchy of terms. A 'tumulus' or 'barrow' is the mound. What's inside the mound can be a 'cist', a 'dolmen', or a 'passage grave'. The question asks what the entire structure (dolmen + mound) is called, for which tumulus is the best general answer.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept Overview:
The question seeks the archaeological term for a megalithic monument: a dolmen (a single-chamber tomb of large stones supporting a capstone) covered by earth.
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
- Passage grave: A specific megalithic tomb with a burial chamber (potentially a dolmen) connected to the exterior via a narrow passage, all covered by a mound. While fitting the description, it's highly specific.
- Tumulus: The Latin term for a mound of earth/stones over a grave, synonymous with "barrow." Any grave under a mound, including a dolmen, is a tumulus. This is the most inclusive and accurate term for the mound itself.
- Stonehenge: A specific prehistoric monument (a cromlech or stone circle) in England, not a general tomb type.
- Hallcist: A Scandinavian "long cist" (stone-lined grave), a different megalithic tomb variant.
Step 3: Conclusion:
"Tumulus" is the general and correct term for an earth mound constructed over a grave, such as a dolmen.